Chhath Puja Day 3: Sandhya Arghya – The Evening Offering | Muzaffarpur (Bihar)

Introduction

The third day of Chhath Puja – Sandhya Arghya – is one of the most soul-stirring moments of the festival.
As the sun descends, devotees stand waist-deep in water, offering Arghya to the setting sun while chanting praises of Surya Dev and Chhathi Maiya.

Our team travelled to Muzaffarpur, Bihar, to experience this celestial evening firsthand with our friend’s family and local devotees.
The vibrant ghats, the sound of folk songs, and the aroma of fresh prasad filled the air with faith and devotion.

Significance of Sandhya Arghya

The Sandhya Arghya symbolizes gratitude toward the Sun for sustaining life on Earth and marks the devotees’ continuing fast that began on Kharna.

• Devotees stand in rivers or ponds, holding soops (bamboo baskets) filled with Thekua, fruits, and sugarcane.
• The offering is made as the sun sets, symbolizing humility and thankfulness.
• The ritual is accompanied by folk songs and family prayers for well-being and prosperity.

Highlights of Our Visit

📍 Location: Muzaffarpur, Bihar
🌅 Occasion: Day 3 of Chhath Puja – Sandhya Arghya

In this episode you’ll see:

• 🙏 The magnificent evening offering to Surya Dev.
• 🌾 Women preparing soops decorated with Thekua, fruits, and flowers.
• 💬 Discussions on the meaning of Arghya and its spiritual importance.
• 🪔 Community unity as families gather at sunset to pray together.

Cultural Insights

The Sandhya Arghya evening showcases the depth of Bihar’s culture and spiritual discipline:

• A perfect example of bhakti and sacrifice, where devotees fast without water.
• A celebration of womanhood and resilience, as most rituals are led by women.
• A reminder of our connection to nature – worshiping the sun, water, and earth together.

What’s Next

Stay tuned for our next episode – Day 4: Usha Arghya (Morning Offering), the final and most divine day of Chhath Puja where devotees greet the rising sun and conclude the vrat with faith and joy.

Standing on the ghats of Muzaffarpur amidst chants and lamps was a surreal moment.
Sandhya Arghya is not just a ritual – it’s a celebration of life, light, and gratitude woven into the spiritual fabric of Bihar. 🌞🌾